OPERATION FOOD SEARCHProviding Aid to St. Louis neighbors since 1981

We are Operation Food Search

Operation Food Search is a St. Louis-based non-profit organization dedicated to ending hunger in the greater St. Louis metropolitan area. Established in 1981, we are the largest distributor of free food in the bi-state region. We distribute more than 3 million dollars worth of food and household essentials to 330 community partner agencies, which in turn feeds 200,000 people in need each month – nearly one-third of whom are children.

In addition to our emergency food distribution services, we impact thousands of people through our nutrition education services. Our programs are designed to empower families by boosting their skills and confidence to shop for and prepare healthy meals at home.

We also spearhead efforts to ensure that no person in the bi-state region goes cold during the winter, or must go without essential personal care items. In partnership with Kurt and Brenda Warner’s First Things First Foundation, Operation Food Search distributes nearly 20,000 winter coats throughout the region to keep St. Louis warm. In the spring, we team up with the Girl Scouts Council of Eastern Missouri to collect and distribute over one million personal care items (soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, etc.) to individuals who would otherwise be unable to afford such basic necessities.

For every dollar donated by individuals, corporations, foundations and organizations, 97 cents is devoted to programs and services.

Without the hard work of our volunteers, community partners and staff, none of what we do would be possible.